Crockpot Pork Chops are juicy and tender, making dinner a breeze! Just season the chops, toss them in the slow cooker, and let it do all the hard work for you.
These chops turn out so flavorful that they practically melt in your mouth. I love serving them with mashed potatoes to soak up all the yummy sauce. It’s a comfort food win! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops give more flavor, but boneless chops work too. You can also try using pork loin or shoulder for a different texture.
Olive Oil: It’s my go-to for searing. If you want to switch things up, try avocado oil for a higher smoke point or butter for a richer flavor.
Condensed Soup: Cream of mushroom soup is classic here, but cream of chicken or even a homemade white sauce can work. If you’re dairy-free, you can make a cashew cream instead.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds depth and color. For a kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or using regular paprika instead. Fresh herbs bring a lovely brightness!
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Tender Pork Chops?
The secret to tender pork chops is in the slow cooking process. Start by searing the chops—this locks in the juices and enhances flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a hot skillet with oil to get a good sear without cooking through.
- Layer the pork chops on top of the sauce to let them cook in the moisture.
- Cook on low for the recommended time, avoiding the temptation to lift the lid—it affects the cooking temperature!
- If you want a thicker sauce, add a cornstarch slurry at the end.
Follow these steps, and you’ll end up with tender, flavor-packed pork chops that are perfect every time!
How to Make Delicious Crockpot Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (can substitute with cream of chicken soup)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
For Garnish:
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (optional)
Thickening Option:
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and about 6-7 hours of cooking on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. Perfect for those busy days when you want a tasty meal without the fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning both sides of your pork chops with salt and pepper. This adds a lovely flavor right from the beginning!
2. Sear for Flavor:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops in batches. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. This step locks in the juices and adds a beautiful color. Remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Cook the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and let it cook for 3-4 minutes until it softens. Then, add the minced garlic and stir for another 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Yum!
4. Prepare the Sauce:
Now it’s time to make that delicious sauce! Add the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, smoked paprika, dried thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir well to combine everything!
5. Transfer to the Crockpot:
Pour the mixture into your crockpot and place the seared pork chops on top of the sauce. This allows the chops to soak up all the wonderful flavors as they cook.
6. Let it Cook:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Check for tenderness; the pork chops should be fork-tender and full of flavor!
7. Thicken the Sauce (optional):
If you find that your sauce is a little thin and you like it thicker, mix the cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the crockpot. Cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until it thickens up nicely.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, serve the pork chops topped with the rich, creamy sauce. If you want to impress, garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs. Pair it with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite veggies, and enjoy your delicious meal!
This recipe yields tender, flavorful pork chops smothered in a savory creamy sauce with a hint of smoky paprika and herbs. Easy and satisfying, it’s a great choice for a comforting dinner!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
It’s best to thaw the pork chops beforehand for even cooking. You can safely thaw them in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method: seal the chops in a plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about an hour. Just ensure they are fully thawed before searing!
How Can I Adjust the Recipe for Different Serving Sizes?
Feel free to double or halve the ingredients depending on your needs. Just ensure not to overcrowd the crockpot if you’re making a larger batch—leave some room for steam to circulate, and you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Cream of Mushroom Soup?
Absolutely! You can substitute it with a homemade white sauce, a can of cream of chicken soup, or even a dairy-free option like coconut milk mixed with flour or cornstarch for thickening. Just adjust the seasonings to taste!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to keep the sauce creamy and moist.
